A Colborne resident is facing theft and arson charges related to two separate alleged incidents, say Northumberland OPP.
On Tuesday, Feb. 27, Northumberland OPP issued a release saying police had made an arrest in relation to a person wanted for separate alleged incidents of arson and theft.
According to police, on Oct. 31, 2023, police responded to a call about an item of furniture that had allegedly been set on fire outside an address on King Street East in Colborne. The accused had left the area prior to police arrival, said OPP.
On Nov. 8, 2023, police said they also received a complaint about theft from a commercial premises on King Street East. Police said the victim discovered the incident had occurred earlier in the day and reported it to OPP.
As a result of both investigations, police said an individual was identified and that officers attended an address in Colborne where they believed the accused to be.
On Feb. 20, 2024, police said they made an arrest in relation to both incidents.
Police said Thomas Merriman, 29, of Colborne, was charged with theft under $5,000 –shoplifting, and arson – damage to property.
None of these charges have been proven in court.
The accused is scheduled to appear in Cobourg court at a future date, said police.
Police provided no other details in their Tuesday release.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation or any other incident is asked to call OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or visit www.opp.ca/reporting. Should citizens wish to remain anonymous, they can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-2477.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)